Delhi, 7th Dec 2003.

THE GLORY AND JOY OF PEACE

A Grand Festival of Peace at New Delhi

A grand setting, a grand assembly and a grand vision of achieving world peace - It was the 7th of December 2003 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium when the capital of India celebrated peace in a grand style. Leaders of the political and spiritual world gave an eloquent expression to the dire need of making peace a reality of our lives and the society. We share a few glimpses and voices of this magnificent event in this report.

HE Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, President of India Presided over the session on World Peace through Spiritual Power. Peace can come only when religion is elevated to the level of spirituality and there is righteousness in the heart. Righteousness brings beauty in the character. When there is beauty in the character, there is harmony in the home and there is an order in the nation. With positive thinking, courage and determination we can transform all adversities and take India to glorious heights. India can become an economic and spiritual superpower by 2020 if there is integrated development of core sectors like education, healthcare, science and communication technology along with spirituality, positive lifestyle, universal values and meditation. Silence aids cultivation of inner powers which is not only essential for peace in individual, but also peace in society and nation.

Rajyogini Dadi Prakashmani, Chief of Brahmakumaris showered her blessings for a new world of peace and harmony The practice of spiritual wisdom and Rajyoga meditation are vital not only for removing the negativities, conflict and tension in self and society but also for restoring unity, peace, love and harmony. A spiritual renaissance is needed to usher in a new era of Golden Age of Deities in Bharat. Peace can return to the world through a loveful and deep relationship with the Supreme Father, the Ocean of Peace. Weapons of destruction will destroy, but cannot bring peace into anyone's life. Worship-worthy deities lived in peace and ruled over the whole world peacefully, as they were powerful in spirituality, purity and divinity. Once again we have to bring about such a world by living a value-based life and empowering the self with Spiritual wisdom and Godly powers.

Hon. Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, Vice President of India Formally inaugurated the Peace Festival. All conflicts are rooted in jealousy and greed. If we accept all world as one and practice tolerance, respect and co-operation then we can remove stress and hatred from our lives Peace is a dynamic power that is essential for our progress. Social conflicts can be avoided if we accept everything calmly and work towards our goals honestly. Without peace there cannot be any development in the society. I have moved ahead in life because I worked hard towards my goal without coming in conflict with anyone. We have practical examples of the power of peace in Gandhiji who used non-violence as a weapon against imperialism and in the Dadis here whose practical life of simplicity, dedication and selfless service has inspired lots of people.

Rajyogini Dadi Janki, Addl. Chief of Brahmakumaris shared spiritual wisdom for dynamic peace Link with God and God's love will remove all sufferings. Incorporeal God is the Father of all Humanity. As children we have a right to His property - peace, love and joy. In the whole world there is fear. In such atmosphere, honesty, compassion and kindness will bring peace. Desire, lust for material things and mental conflicts are the cause of suffering. Look inwards and
realise your innate self and link your love with God. Renounce ego and attachment. Me and mine are the root cause of all conflicts. Peace, love and joy will return when we renounce vices. A mind that has greed, anger or ego can never know peace. Godly wisdom and Godly powers alone can restore peace on earth. Rajyoga meditation shows us an easy way to link with God and experience His powers in our daily life. Now is the time to fill your heart with God's love and claim an imperishable inheritance of lasting peace and happiness.

Rajyogini Dadi Hirdaya Mohini, Jt. Chief of Brahmakumaris Unveiled God's Plan for World Peace In the present stressful times, everyone - young and old - is seeking peace of mind. Life has become a burden for all. God, the Supreme Soul is that Father of all souls. He is incorporeal, immortal and an ocean of peace. God is Truth and God helps those who have courage. God is merciful and He cannot see the sufferings of humans. Dawn comes only after midnight. So the Golden Dawn of Heaven will definitely come after the present time of extreme Hell. God's plan is to transform the world to heaven with guaranteed constant peace and joy. Meditation helps us remain calm and joyful even in adverse circumstances. We should refrain from giving sorrow but also have the power to avoid getting hurt or feeling sorrowful when someone gives sorrow.

Hon. I. D. Swami, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Spirituality cultivates inner peace that can bring peace and harmony in the society. Appreciated the fact that the Brahmakumaris were spreading the light of spiritual wisdom and peace under the leadership of spiritually empowered women. They are paragons of self-discipline and contentment, which are living values of our ancient culture.

Hon. Babu Parmanand, Governor of Haryana In the present age of extreme materialism and moral degradation, the Brahmakumaris are a ray of hope for humanity. By imparting the wisdom of Rajyoga meditation, they are doing a remarkable effort to transform our world with spiritual power. To achieve individual peace we need to look inwards and link with God.

A galaxy of distinguished personalities including Dr. L. M. Singhvi, M.P. Mr. D. R. Kaarthikeyan, Former Director, CBI, Mr. Feodor Starcevic, Director UNIC, New Delhi gave their heartfelt greetings.

Mr. Ashok Kumar Jain, Mayor of Delhi accorded a civic reception to all the three Chief Dadis. Noted singer Mahendra Kapoor enthralled the audience with his soul elevating devotional songs and music.

The festive spirit of the audience of more than one lakh people soared high with devotional songs by B. K. Satish, Indu Prakash and group, a classical dance by Russian artist Ludmila. The audience also joined in the celebrations by releasing clourful balloons and by waving Shiva flags.